News Summary
A month-long boycott in Texas against Amazon, Home Depot, and Starbucks has begun, driven by concerns over labor treatment and corporate accountability. The initiative, led by People’s Union USA, urges consumers to shop elsewhere to protest perceived injustices linked to these companies. With a focus on worker safety at Amazon and recent criticisms aimed at Home Depot and Starbucks regarding labor practices and diversity commitments, this campaign reflects a growing consumer sentiment towards corporate responsibility. The boycott coincides with Amazon’s Prime Day, prompting shoppers to consider their purchases carefully.
Texas – A 31-day boycott targeting major retailers Amazon, Home Depot, and Starbucks commenced on July 1, 2025. Organized by the nonpartisan group People’s Union USA, the boycott stems from allegations of labor and equity concerns associated with these corporations. Participants are urged to refrain from making purchases from these companies until July 31.
The founder of People’s Union USA, John Schwarz, spearheads the campaign and has accused these corporations of not only financially backing the Trump administration but also of lacking accountability in their business practices. The campaign highlights specific issues such as unsafe working conditions for Amazon employees, particularly under extreme heat, with assertions that employees are overworked to increase the wealth of founder Jeff Bezos.
Recent reports indicate that Bezos’s earnings exceed $7 million per hour while he reportedly pays a tax rate of only 1.1%. In response to these criticisms, Amazon asserts that it has implemented safety measures for employees during high-temperature conditions, including climate-controlled workspaces and insulated delivery vehicles.
In addition to Amazon, allegations have also been made against Home Depot. Schwarz claimed that the company removed its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) webpage, suggesting a withdrawal from promoting fairness and representation. However, Home Depot has reiterated its commitment to maintaining an inclusive culture and has stated that it does not support any political campaign or candidate.
Starbucks has not been absent from the controversy surrounding the boycott. Accusations of anti-union activities, including the closure of stores in reaction to employee organization efforts, have sparked significant concern. Both Home Depot and Starbucks have issued statements in defense of their practices in light of the increasing scrutiny.
The impact of the boycott is particularly relevant as it coincides with Amazon’s Prime Day event, scheduled for July 8-11. Organizers are closely monitoring consumer behavior during this period to gauge the effectiveness of the campaign. The previous initiative launched by People’s Union USA, dubbed the “Economic Blackout” on February 28, 2025, similarly encouraged consumers to avoid major retailers.
The founders and organizers of People’s Union USA emphasize that the group does not align with any political party but seeks to dismantle corporate control over governmental and economic systems. Recent surveys suggest that consumers are increasingly reluctant to shop at corporations perceived as unjust or unaccountable, indicating a shift in retail purchasing behaviors towards smaller, local businesses during the boycott.
As the boycott progresses, its effects could reshape consumer spending habits and compel larger corporations to reevaluate their practices regarding employee treatment and corporate responsibility. The growing consumer sentiment toward accountability is prompting discussions about fairness, representation, and corporate ethics, highlighting a potential shift in the relationship between consumers and major retailers in Texas and nationwide.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- TheStreet: Home Depot, Amazon, Starbucks Suffer Major Boycott
- NJ.com: Month-Long Nationwide Boycott
- Clarion Ledger: July 4th Economic Blackout
- Newsweek: Home Depot Boycott and DEI Concerns
- Money Talks News: Boycotts Heat Up for Major Retailers
